San Bartolomé closes the course of folklore and traditional dance schools

Casa Ajei revives the essence of Lanzarote folklore with the closing of the Municipal Schools of Folklore and Traditional Dances.

The San Bartolomé City Council celebrated the closing of the course of the Municipal Schools of Folklore and Traditional Dances last Thursday afternoon, an event full of emotion, tradition, and popular sentiment that took place at the emblematic Casa Ajei.

This historic 18th-century building, a prominent example of traditional Canarian architecture, was popularly known as "Casa de los Ferrer," in reference to the family that owned the property. Over time, it was renamed Casa Ajei, thus recovering the ancient indigenous name of the town of San Bartolomé.

The closing became a particularly emotional day, marked by traditional music and dances deeply rooted in the municipality, proudly considered the "Cradle of Lanzarote Folklore." Students from both schools had the opportunity to showcase the work done throughout the course to family members, municipal authorities, and the general public.

The Municipal School of Folklore, directed by professor Leo García Corujo, had a notable participation of students of all ages. Their performance highlighted the effort, dedication, and learning achieved during the year, receiving a warm and constant ovation from the audience after each piece performed.

For its part, the School of Traditional Dances, under the direction of professor Yeray Martín, more than met the objectives set for the course. Dancers demonstrated elegance, coordination, and precision in each of the choreographies presented, surprising attendees and being rewarded with prolonged applause at the end of each performance.

The mayor of San Bartolomé, Isidro Pérez, present at the event, highlighted the importance of these schools as a fundamental tool for the conservation and transmission of the municipality's cultural heritage. In his words, he pointed out that "they are a key piece in keeping our roots alive and strengthening our identity, bringing our traditions closer to the new generations."

Likewise, the Councilor for Culture, Carmen Medina, thanked the involvement of the students, their families, and the teaching staff, highlighting the work developed throughout the year and their contribution to ensuring that popular traditions continue to grow and reach people of all ages.

The celebration also had a marked symbolic character. The Casa Ajei was the first headquarters of the Bartolomé Folk Group, which would later be renamed the Ajei Folk Group, directed by the remembered folklorist Don José María Gil. With this closing, the historic building was once again filled with music, dance, and tradition, reliving moments from a past that remains very present in the collective memory of the inhabitants of San Bartolomé.

Once again, popular culture and Canarian traditions found in the Casa Ajei the best stage to demonstrate that the legacy of generations continues to live thanks to the commitment of those who work day by day for its conservation and dissemination.